ICD-10: M71.142

ICD-10 code M71.142 refers to "Other infective bursitis, left hand." This condition involves inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, specifically in the left hand. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Clinical Presentation

Infective bursitis typically presents with localized symptoms that can vary in severity. The clinical presentation of M71.142 may include:

• Localized Pain: Patients often report pain in the affected area of the left hand, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
• Swelling: There is usually noticeable swelling over the bursa, which can be tender to the touch.
• Redness and Warmth: The skin over the affected bursa may appear red and feel warm, indicating inflammation and possible infection.
• Limited Range of Motion: Patients may experience difficulty moving the fingers or wrist due to pain and swelling.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of infective bursitis in the left hand can be categorized as follows:

Common Symptoms

• Pain: Often described as sharp or throbbing, localized to the bursa.
• Swelling: The bursa may appear enlarged, and the surrounding tissues may also swell.
• Tenderness: The area is typically sensitive to touch, and pressure can exacerbate the pain.
• Fever: In cases of infection, patients may present with systemic symptoms such as fever and chills.

Physical Examination Findings

• Erythema: Redness over the bursa is a common finding.
• Increased Temperature: The skin over the bursa may feel warmer than surrounding areas.
• Palpable Fluctuance: In cases of significant fluid accumulation, a fluctuant mass may be felt upon examination.

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics may predispose individuals to develop infective bursitis:

• Age: While bursitis can occur at any age, older adults may be more susceptible due to degenerative changes in the musculoskeletal system.
• Underlying Conditions: Patients with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or other immunocompromising conditions may have a higher risk of developing infections, including bursitis.
• Occupational Hazards: Individuals engaged in repetitive activities or manual labor that stress the hand may be at increased risk.
• Recent Trauma: A history of trauma or injury to the hand can predispose the bursa to infection.

Conclusion

Infective bursitis of the left hand, classified under ICD-10 code M71.142, presents with a combination of localized pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Understanding the clinical signs and symptoms, along with patient characteristics, is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and promote recovery, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions that may complicate the infection. If you suspect infective bursitis, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for appropriate management.

ICD-10 code M71.142 refers to "Other infective bursitis, left hand." This code is part of the broader category of bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, reducing friction and allowing for smooth movement.

Clinical Description

Definition of Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the bursa becomes inflamed, often due to repetitive motion, trauma, or infection. In the case of infective bursitis, the inflammation is specifically caused by an infection, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal in nature. The left hand is specified in this code, indicating that the condition affects the bursa in that particular area.

Symptoms

Patients with infective bursitis may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Localized Pain: Pain in the affected area, which may worsen with movement.
- Swelling: Noticeable swelling around the joint or bursa.
- Redness and Warmth: The skin over the affected bursa may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the affected joint due to pain and swelling.
- Systemic Symptoms: In some cases, patients may experience fever or malaise if the infection is systemic.

Common Causes

Infective bursitis can arise from several factors, including:
- Direct Infection: Bacteria can enter the bursa through a cut or puncture wound.
- Hematogenous Spread: Infection can spread from another part of the body through the bloodstream.
- Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can predispose individuals to infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of M71.142 typically involves:
- Clinical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms and perform a physical examination.
- Imaging Studies: X-rays or ultrasound may be used to evaluate the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests or aspiration of the bursa may be performed to identify the causative organism.

Treatment

Treatment for infective bursitis generally includes:
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is confirmed, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed.
- Rest and Immobilization: Reducing movement in the affected area can help alleviate symptoms.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice can reduce swelling and pain.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, drainage of the bursa may be necessary to remove infected fluid.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code M71.142 is crucial for accurately documenting and billing for cases of other infective bursitis in the left hand. Understanding the clinical presentation, causes, and treatment options is essential for healthcare providers to manage this condition effectively. Proper coding ensures that patients receive appropriate care and that healthcare providers are reimbursed for their services.

ICD-10 code M71.142 refers specifically to "Other infective bursitis, left hand." This code is part of the broader category of bursitis, which is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this condition.

Alternative Names for M71.142

1. Infective Bursitis of the Left Hand: This is a direct synonym that emphasizes the infectious nature of the bursitis.
2. Left Hand Bursitis: A more general term that may not specify the infective nature but indicates the location.
3. Left Hand Bursa Infection: This term highlights the infection aspect of the bursitis.
4. Left Hand Septic Bursitis: This term is often used in clinical settings to denote bursitis caused by an infection, particularly bacterial.

Related Terms

1. Bursitis: A general term for inflammation of a bursa, which can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, or repetitive motion.
2. Infective Bursitis: This term refers to bursitis caused specifically by an infection, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal.
3. Septic Bursitis: Similar to infective bursitis, this term is often used to describe bursitis that is caused by a bacterial infection.
4. Subacromial Bursitis: While this term refers to bursitis in a different location (the shoulder), it is often discussed in the context of bursitis in general.
5. Olecranon Bursitis: This is another specific type of bursitis that occurs at the elbow, but it is related in terms of the inflammatory process.

Clinical Context

Infective bursitis can occur due to various pathogens, and it is important for healthcare providers to differentiate it from non-infective bursitis to determine the appropriate treatment. The left hand's involvement may suggest specific injuries or infections that could be localized to that area, such as from a puncture wound or repetitive strain.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code M71.142 can aid healthcare professionals in accurately diagnosing and coding for this condition. It is essential to consider the infectious nature of the bursitis when discussing treatment options and potential complications. If you need further information on treatment protocols or coding guidelines, feel free to ask!

The ICD-10 code M71.142 refers to "Other infective bursitis, left hand." This diagnosis is part of the broader category of bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Understanding the criteria for diagnosing this condition involves several key components, including clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests.

Diagnostic Criteria for M71.142

1. Clinical Evaluation

• Symptoms: Patients typically present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the left hand. Symptoms may also include limited range of motion and warmth over the affected area.
• History: A thorough medical history is essential. The clinician should inquire about recent injuries, repetitive use of the hand, or any underlying conditions that may predispose the patient to bursitis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.

2. Physical Examination

• Inspection and Palpation: The physician will examine the left hand for signs of swelling, redness, and tenderness. Palpation of the bursa may elicit pain, which is a key indicator of bursitis.
• Range of Motion: Assessing the range of motion in the affected hand can help determine the extent of the condition and its impact on function.

3. Imaging Studies

• X-rays: While X-rays are not definitive for bursitis, they can help rule out other conditions such as fractures or arthritis that may mimic bursitis symptoms.
• Ultrasound or MRI: These imaging modalities can provide a clearer picture of the bursa and surrounding tissues, helping to confirm inflammation or infection.

4. Laboratory Tests

• Aspiration: If there is significant swelling, aspiration of the bursa may be performed. The fluid can be analyzed for signs of infection, such as the presence of white blood cells or bacteria.
• Cultures: Culturing the aspirated fluid can help identify specific pathogens if an infection is suspected.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for signs of systemic infection or inflammatory markers.

5. Differential Diagnosis

• It is crucial to differentiate infective bursitis from other conditions that may present similarly, such as non-infective bursitis, tendinitis, or arthritis. This may involve considering the patient's overall health, history of infections, and any recent injuries.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of M71.142, or other infective bursitis of the left hand, requires a comprehensive approach that includes clinical assessment, imaging, and laboratory tests. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, which may involve antibiotics if an infection is confirmed, as well as rest, ice, and possibly corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. If you suspect you have this condition, consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation is recommended.

When addressing the standard treatment approaches for ICD-10 code M71.142, which refers to "Other infective bursitis, left hand," it is essential to understand both the condition itself and the typical management strategies employed in clinical practice. Infective bursitis occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues, becomes inflamed due to infection. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected area.

Diagnosis and Initial Assessment

Before treatment can begin, a thorough diagnosis is crucial. This typically involves:

• Clinical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms, including pain, swelling, and tenderness in the left hand. A physical examination may reveal warmth and redness over the bursa.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays or ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions and assess the extent of the inflammation.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests or aspiration of the bursa fluid may be performed to identify the causative organism and determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Antibiotic Therapy

If the bursitis is confirmed to be infectious, antibiotic treatment is the cornerstone of management. The choice of antibiotics may depend on the suspected organism, which can include:

• Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA)
• Streptococcus species

Commonly prescribed antibiotics may include:

• Cephalexin or Dicloxacillin for non-MRSA infections.
• Clindamycin or Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for suspected MRSA infections.

The duration of antibiotic therapy typically ranges from 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's response to treatment[6].

2. Pain Management

Pain relief is an essential component of treatment. Options include:

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be administered to reduce inflammation, especially if pain is severe and not adequately controlled by NSAIDs.

3. Rest and Immobilization

To facilitate healing, it is often recommended that the affected hand be rested. This may involve:

• Splinting or Bracing: Using a splint to immobilize the hand can help reduce strain on the bursa and alleviate pain.
• Activity Modification: Patients should avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms, particularly those involving repetitive hand movements.

4. Physical Therapy

Once the acute infection is under control, physical therapy may be beneficial to restore function and strength in the hand. This can include:

• Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help regain mobility.
• Ultrasound Therapy: This may be used to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

5. Surgical Intervention

In cases where conservative management fails, or if there is an abscess formation, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve:

• Drainage of the Bursa: If there is significant fluid accumulation, aspiration or surgical drainage may be performed to relieve pressure and remove infected material.
• Bursa Removal: In chronic cases, surgical excision of the bursa may be considered.

Conclusion

The management of infective bursitis in the left hand, as indicated by ICD-10 code M71.142, typically involves a combination of antibiotic therapy, pain management, rest, and possibly physical therapy. Surgical options are reserved for more severe cases or when conservative treatments are ineffective. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure a full recovery. If you have further questions or need more specific information, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.